Most human beings have some sort of innate fear of falling. Whether it be while going down steps or walking across a log, most of us don’t want to fall. As we get older, the fear of falling becomes even more intense. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries. Knowing this fact can lead to even more fear of falling for the elderly. There are a few things that older people can do to help prevent falls or help falls be less detrimental. According to the latest research, as people age, muscle mass and strength decline. This can result in falls and impairment while performing ADL’s or (activities of daily living). Just climbing in and out of a bathtub can pose considerable risk for an older person (Janssen). There are a few things you can do to help prevent falls: 1) Exercise regularly (especially weight bearing). That’s because weight bearing exercise strengthens bones and muscles, and improves balance, coordination, and flexibility, which is especially important for older adults. 2) Review medications. Some medications and their interactions with each other may cause dizziness or drowsiness. 3) Get an eye exam. During the exam it may be determined that your eyeglass prescription needs updated or changed. This obviously means you may see better! 4) Get adequate Vitamin D and Calcium supplement. Vitamin D deficiency can be a common problem with the elderly for many reasons such as reduced skin thickness, diminished sunlight exposure, and poor diet. Vitamin D can be photo converted through the skin but can also be obtained through eating fatty fish, fortified milk, or a multivitamin. It is especially important to know that Vitamin D deficiency may cause muscle weakness. Evidence suggests that Vitamin D supplementation may preserve muscle strength and functional ability in high-risk groups, mostly home bound elderly people (Janssen). 5) Keep your homes safer by getting a free safety assessment. Advanced Home Health Care will provide this free service during all initial consultations. By taking these 5 different suggestions under consideration, you may be able to reduce your risk of falling. There are many other ways to help prevent falls as well. There are also resources online such as www.cdc.gov, www.aarp.org, and www.learnnottofall.com. For more information, please contact Jessica at 402-490-3120 for a free consultation and safety assessment. References: Janssen, Hennie, et al. “Vitamin D deficiency, muscle function, and falls in elderly people.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 75.4 (2002): 611-615. web.21 Feb. 2015. Jessica, RN Call today for Skilled Nursing or Senior Care Omaha in the Omaha, Metro 402-490-3120...

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a family locally owned and operated Senior Care Agency. We feel this is an important distinction from almost all of our competitors. It is our goal, to provide specialized care from a company that has established trust. If you need anything, no need to call a corporate call center. Call Jessica Schaben at 402-490-3120.

Most human beings have some sort of innate fear of falling. Whether it be while going down steps or walking across a log, most of us don’t want to fall. As we get older, the fear of falling becomes even more intense. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal […]

Hidden costs in Senior Care Hidden Costs of Elderly Care Communities There are many ways to refer to an elderly care community. Some call them “nursing homes,” “assisted living facilities,” and even a “rest home.” Most people don’t realize that there are many levels of care and titles when it comes to senior living communities. […]

Keeping Pets can be a Necessity for Seniors A growing number of Seniors are keeping pets throughout the golden years. There are benefits to owning pets at any age, but it is especially nice for seniors. Often times, it has been the pet that has provided much needed companionship and comfort to its senior owner. […]

Malnutrition and Dehydration are Often Missed by Caretakers or Healthcare Workers According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, malnutrition can be defined as “the unhealthy condition that results from not eating enough food or not eating enough healthy food.” Malnutrition and dehydration in the elderly is often missed by health care workers. It can manifest as many […]

The slowest stages of grief for those still living: Alzheimer’s Disease I knew what was coming but I desperately wished I could turn around and go home. I heard the “ding” of the elevator and felt it shake as it stopped on the lower level. My eyes burst into tears and I couldn’t control […]

As I think about my elders and how they have lived life I marvel at the things they must have endured. The Great Depression, wars, the 60’s, and the list goes on. Civil rights have changed, Women’s rights have changed, humanity has changed. Our elders hold such interesting memories about the world and how […]

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I would like to personally thank Jessica Schaben and her wonderful staff for the care my Father received while in there care. We decided after my Father began declining that a new option would be required for his care.